Grant Program to Benefit Specialty Growers

Washington, D.C.- President Bush has signed into law the Specialty Crop Competitiveness Act (HR 3242). The American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA) and the Western Growers, a California-based produce industry trade group promoted passage of the bill.

The cornerstone of the legislation is a grant program authorizing a total of $44.5 million annually, with each state authorized to receive a minimum grant of $100,000. The grants are for specialty crop producers, including nurseries and greenhouses.

Western Growers Association President Tom Nassif called the bill a ?EUR??,,????'??significant victory for growers and consumers.?EUR??,,????'?? The grants will not be direct subsidies, but will seek to improve profitability and markets through technical assistance, specialized research programs, conservation, education and promotions.